Adapting to the New Normal: Teacher’s Preparation, Student’s Academic Performance, and Challenges Encountered

Abstract

Teacher preparation plays a significant role in the teaching and learning process delivered to the students during the pandemic. This paper
examines the adaption of a flexible learning approach in teacher preparation, students' academic performance, and challenges encountered by
students and teachers. A sequential explanatory mixed-method design was utilized in which a survey was done followed by an in-depth
interview. The results showed that teachers were prepared, and student's academic performance was very good. Teachers and students shared
their preparations, experiences, learnings, challenges encountered, and coping mechanisms. Teachers showed significant preparedness to face the
challenges encountered. Teachers showed compassion and determination to deliver their lessons and make students learned. Students believed
that teacher preparation helped build their cognitive knowledge and understanding. Teachers and students need to work hand in hand for the
teaching and learning process will be meaningful and fruitful.